The United States has issued a security advisory for its citizens in Pakistan, urging them to remain vigilant and maintain a low public profile amid escalating military tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
According to the US mission in Pakistan, the advisory was issued in response to heightened security concerns following recent cross-border hostilities between the two neighbouring countries. The mission warned that military activity in several areas has increased and security forces have stepped up deployment in major cities.
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In the advisory, the US embassy urged American citizens to âobserve good personal security practicesâ and remain cautious while moving in public spaces. It noted that places such as law enforcement facilities, military installations and major commercial centres could become potential targets during periods of heightened tension.
âLaw enforcement facilities, military installations and major commercial centres remain likely targets for terrorist organisations,â the advisory said, urging citizens to exercise caution while visiting such locations, particularly during peak hours.
Precautionary steps advised for US citizens
The US mission outlined several safety measures for its citizens in Pakistan. It advised them to avoid large gatherings, monitor local news for updates and leave areas immediately if they encounter military activity.
Among the precautions listed were carrying proper identification at all times, cooperating with local authorities when required and remaining aware of surroundings in crowded or high-risk areas. Citizens were also encouraged to review the official Country Security Report for Pakistan and stay in contact with the US embassy for updates.
Tensions escalate after cross-border strikes
The advisory comes amid a sharp escalation in tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. According to reports, Pakistan carried out air strikes in Afghan cities including Kabul and Kandahar under an operation it called Ghazab lil-Haq. Pakistani officials claimed that more than 270 Taliban fighters and militants were killed during the strikes.
Islamabad described the operation as a response to what it termed âunprovoked firingâ from Afghan forces earlier in the week. Pakistanâs defence minister reportedly described the situation as an âopen warâ following months of intermittent clashes along the border.
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The latest violence has disrupted a fragile truce that had been in place since last year after talks mediated by Qatar.
Afghanistanâs Taliban government said its forces retaliated during the clashes. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed Afghan forces killed 55 Pakistani soldiers and captured several others. Afghan officials also said that at least 13 of their troops were killed in the fighting.
Diplomatic signals from Kabul, however, indicate that the Taliban government may still be open to negotiations to reduce tensions along the border.
